When it comes to upgrading your TV's sound in 2024, soundbars offering Dolby Atmos support present an intriguing range of options. Today we're comparing two distinct approaches: the budget-friendly $399 Polk Signa S4 and the premium $1,499 Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Plus. Both launched in 2022, but they take notably different paths to delivering immersive audio.
The home theater audio market has evolved significantly since these products' 2022 debuts. Dolby Atmos, which adds height channels to create a three-dimensional sound field, has become increasingly common even in mid-range offerings. However, the technology to deliver these effects varies widely.
Traditional surround sound required multiple speakers placed around the room. Modern soundbars aim to simplify this while still providing an engaging experience. They achieve this through either physical speakers pointing in different directions or sophisticated audio processing that creates virtual speakers - and sometimes both.
The Polk Signa S4 takes a straightforward approach with actual up-firing speakers that bounce sound off your ceiling to create height effects. It's paired with a wireless subwoofer for bass. This physical 3.1.2 configuration (3 front channels, 1 subwoofer, 2 height channels) represents a traditional implementation of Atmos.
In contrast, the AMBEO Soundbar Plus uses advanced digital signal processing and careful speaker placement to create virtual surround effects. It claims to deliver 7.1.4 channel sound (7 surround channels, 1 subwoofer channel, 4 height channels) from a single unit through sophisticated audio processing called AMBEO virtualization.
Both systems handle dialogue well, but through different methods. The Polk uses a dedicated center channel and their "VoiceAdjust" technology to ensure clear speech. The AMBEO relies on precise driver control and processing to achieve similar results.
For action scenes, the Polk's separate subwoofer provides impactful bass that you can physically feel. The AMBEO's integrated woofers deliver tight, controlled bass but can't quite match the visceral impact of a dedicated sub.
When it comes to Atmos effects like overhead helicopters or rain, the Polk's physical up-firing speakers provide consistent results in rooms with standard-height flat ceilings. The AMBEO's virtualization can actually create more precise positioning of sounds, but its effectiveness varies more based on room acoustics.
Here's where we see a significant difference. The AMBEO's sophisticated processing and high-quality drivers deliver notably superior music performance. It presents a wider soundstage and more precise instrument separation. The Polk performs adequately for casual music listening but clearly prioritizes movie performance.
The Polk's setup process is straightforward - connect the HDMI cable, place the subwoofer, and you're largely done. Its main limitation is the need for a flat ceiling at an appropriate height for Atmos reflection.
The AMBEO requires more initial setup time with its room calibration process, but this results in better optimization for your specific space. It's also more flexible in terms of placement since it doesn't rely on ceiling reflections.
A key differentiator is network connectivity. The AMBEO offers built-in WiFi with support for:
The Polk is limited to Bluetooth streaming, which is adequate but lacks the convenience and quality of WiFi streaming.
Both handle common formats like Dolby Digital and DTS. The AMBEO adds support for more exotic formats and offers more sophisticated audio processing options. However, for most users watching streaming content or Blu-rays, these differences won't be significant.
Having spent time with both systems, the performance difference isn't as dramatic as the price gap might suggest. The Polk delivers convincing Atmos effects and satisfying bass, making it an excellent value for movie enthusiasts. The AMBEO's more refined sound and superior music playback justify its premium for audiophiles and those seeking a more sophisticated single-unit solution.
The Polk represents impressive value, delivering core Atmos functionality at an accessible price point. Its performance-per-dollar ratio for movie watching is excellent, making it an easy recommendation for most users.
The AMBEO justifies its premium price through superior technical sophistication, better music performance, and more flexible placement options. It's the better choice for discerning listeners who will appreciate its refinements and need its additional capabilities.
Both products remain competitive in 2024, though we're seeing newer models starting to add features like HDMI 2.1 pass-through for gaming. However, for pure audio performance, these 2022 models still hold their own against current competition.
The choice ultimately comes down to your priorities and budget. For most users seeking Atmos on a budget, the Polk delivers impressive performance. For those seeking the best possible sound from a single unit and willing to pay for it, the AMBEO remains one of the most sophisticated options available.
| Polk Audio Signa S4 | Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Plus |
|---|---|
| Price Point - Key factor in value assessment | |
| $399 MSRP | $1,499 MSRP |
| Channel Configuration - Determines surround sound capability | |
| 3.1.2 physical channels with separate subwoofer | 7.1.4 virtual channels via single unit |
| Dolby Atmos Implementation - Affects overhead sound experience | |
| Physical up-firing speakers for direct reflection | Virtual processing with AMBEO 3D technology |
| Bass Solution - Impacts low-frequency performance | |
| Separate wireless 5.9" subwoofer | Dual integrated 4" woofers |
| Power Output - Determines maximum volume and headroom | |
| Not specified by manufacturer | 400W total system power |
| Connectivity Options - Affects integration flexibility | |
| HDMI eARC, Optical, Bluetooth | HDMI eARC, Optical, WiFi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Chromecast |
| Room Calibration - Influences sound optimization | |
| Basic preset modes | Advanced self-calibration with room analysis |
| Streaming Capabilities - Important for music listeners | |
| Bluetooth only | Full WiFi streaming with multiple services |
| Voice Enhancement - Critical for dialogue clarity | |
| VoiceAdjust technology with dedicated center | AI-powered voice enhancement |
| Dimensions - Consider your space constraints | |
| Soundbar: 41.2" x 3.7" x 2.4" (plus separate sub) | Single unit: 40.7" x 4.7" x 3.5" |
| Additional Features - Extra capabilities that add value | |
| Night mode, Bass adjust | MPEG-H support, voice assistant integration, custom EQ |
For movies, the $399 Polk Signa S4 offers excellent value with physical Atmos speakers and a separate subwoofer for impactful bass. The $1,499 AMBEO Plus provides more sophisticated sound processing but may not match the Polk's bass impact for blockbuster movies.
The primary difference is their approach to surround sound. The Polk Signa S4 uses physical up-firing speakers and a separate subwoofer, while the AMBEO Plus uses advanced virtualization technology in a single unit to create surround effects.
The Polk Signa S4 typically delivers stronger bass impact thanks to its dedicated wireless subwoofer. While the AMBEO Plus has good bass response from its integrated woofers, it can't match the physical impact of a separate subwoofer.
The AMBEO Plus justifies its higher price with superior music performance, better room calibration, and more streaming features. However, for pure movie watching, the Polk Signa S4 offers better value at a fraction of the cost.
The Polk Signa S4 might be challenging in small rooms due to its separate subwoofer requiring placement. The AMBEO Plus is more compact as a single unit solution, making it better suited for smaller spaces.
The Polk Signa S4 requires a flat ceiling at an appropriate height for its up-firing Atmos speakers to work effectively. The AMBEO Plus is more flexible since it uses virtualization instead of physical reflection.
The AMBEO Plus offers superior streaming with WiFi, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and voice assistant support. The Polk Signa S4 only offers basic Bluetooth streaming.
Both perform well, with the Polk Signa S4 using VoiceAdjust technology and a dedicated center channel, while the AMBEO Plus uses sophisticated processing for clear dialogue. Both are effective for TV and movie watching.
The Polk Signa S4 offers simpler plug-and-play setup. The AMBEO Plus requires more initial setup time for room calibration but provides better optimized sound as a result.
Yes, both the Polk Signa S4 and AMBEO Plus work with any modern TV through HDMI eARC or optical connections. They're universally compatible with current TVs.
Both soundbars work well for gaming, but the AMBEO Plus offers more precise sound positioning. However, the Polk Signa S4 provides stronger bass impact for explosive gaming effects.
The Polk Signa S4 comes with a wireless subwoofer included. The AMBEO Plus doesn't require a subwoofer due to its integrated woofers, though one can be added optionally for enhanced bass performance.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: soundandvision.com - audioholics.com - crutchfield.com - cnet.com - richersounds.com - crutchfield.com - rtings.com - polkaudio.com - walmart.com - polkaudio.com - crutchfield.com - youtube.com - profx.com - techradar.com - pocket-lint.com - moon-audio.com - stereonet.com - rtings.com - abt.com - projectorscreen.com - youtube.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - crutchfield.com - sennheiser-hearing.com - newsroom.sennheiser.com
